HomeSector ReportsNorth East VisionAutumn 2007
Digital way to help construction industry
IT HAS always been difficult for architects, engineers and project managers to predict each stage of the construction of new homes or offices.
But now computer games technology and artificial intelligence are being harnessed to develop “virtual prototyping” in a bold move which could save the construction industry millions of pounds.
The initiative, led by researchers in the University of Teesside’s Centre for Construction Innovation and Research, has featured on the government’s Number 10 website and been taken up by major players in industry.
The new software gives planners and builders the chance to rehearse different phases of a major construction project over and over again on a PC screen before building work begins – everything from putting in the foundations to installing pipework and electrical equipment.
The Teesside researchers have already tried out the system on several major construction projects, including a new bridge over a London Underground line and more recently on the construction of the new Institute of Digital Innovation building on the University campus in Middlesbrough.
Professor Nashwan Dawood, who is leading the research, said: “The software helps everyone involved go into the minute detail of construction activities and look for the most efficient way of tackling a contract.
“This is particularly important when lots of different trades are working on a multimillion pound project in a tight location and where delays can cost big money.”
The Teesside Professor has worked closely with the international project management and construction consultancy, F+G, on developing the new 4D planning tool (3D + real time).
F+G’s Stockton-based national planning manager, Ian Mackenzie, says among future possibilities are using the new software tool to help with the decommissioning of nuclear power stations.
“We like to be at the leading edge of new developments helping the construction industry to become more efficient. This is a very important tool to help our clients improve on project delivery and save costs.”
Prof Dawood was particularly pleased to see the benefits of the virtual reality technology so close at hand and used to assist HBG, the company building the University of Teesside’s new £12m IDI – the landmark for the DigitalCity project.
HBG’s project co-ordinator Robert Cranmer said: “The IDI was a good site to choose because the building was constructed in a very tight defined space. We’ve used this software tool from the early stages to rehearse the project and make changes to our plans to overcome any foreseen problems with the construction sequences.”
For more information contact Prof Dawood on n.n.dawood@tees.ac.uk